DEPARTMENT ISSUES 2005 CONSUMER GUIDE TO AUTO INSURANCE

Superintendent of Insurance
Howard Mills today announced that the 2005 Consumer Guide to Automobile Insurance
is now available online and in hard-copy form. With New Yorkers
enjoying unprecedented auto rate decreases over the past year, the state Insurance
Department's annual Consumer Guide is aimed at ensuring that drivers are getting
the most for their premium dollar.

The Guide outlines mandatory
coverages, such as bodily injury liability and personal injury protection, as well as
optional coverages, like comprehensive (i.e., fire and theft), available in New York State
and offers practical money-saving tips. Sample auto insurance rates from various New York
territories as of July 1, 2005 are also included in the text so drivers can make
meaningful comparisons.

"As auto rates continue
to decline in New York State, it is important that New Yorks drivers read the
Department's current Consumer Guide to Automobile Insurance," Superintendent
Mills said. "The Guide offers an excellent overview of typical premium rates in
different parts of the state."

The publication
is available online through the Department's Web site: www.ins.state.ny.us.
A hard-copy version of the Guide can be acquired free of charge by those without
Internet access by calling 1-800-342-3736.

"With nearly 200
state-licensed auto insurers competing for your business, drivers owe it to themselves and
their families to shop around for the best coverage at the best price,"
Superintendent Mills stated. "The overwhelming majority of New York drivers will be
saving money on their auto insurance this year. Make sure you are one of them."

Besides listing sample auto
premium rates and offering drivers valuable consumer advice, the Guide also features a
list of state-licensed auto insurers and their telephone numbers, and information on the
extent to which auto insurers can use an applicant drivers credit data.